Opened: April 10, 1971
Final Game: September 28, 2003
Capacity: 61,831
Veteran’s Stadium
As a Pirates fan seeing them play was not easy when I was young. Philadelphia was the closest place to see them play before the days of the Washington Nationals and interleague play that actually played everyone. So my dad decided to take me and a few of my friends to the Vet to see a game. The Pirates lost that game but I stood outside of the players entrance and got some autographs like Denny Neagle, Al Martin, Mark Johnson and Nelson Liriano. Oh, I also got Trey Beamon, who made his major league debut that day. I went back to the Vet in 2000 to see a game. The Pirates lost that game too. Being young you don’t remember a whole heck of a lot but I do remember going to the top of the stadium for an inning and waiting the extra time to hear any sound from the field. I don’t remember this place with any fondness.
How did I get there?
My dad brought me. Came in from I-95 but I don’t remember exactly how he went there. I assume he just took 95 to Broad Street. Probably took the route that I use via Gap and US 1.
Ticket prices
Don’t know since my dad bought them. Don’t think it was all that expensive since this was before the salary explosions.
Finding my seat and amenities
Neither the Phillies or the Pirates were particularly good so neither game was well attended which allowed easy movement around the park. The Vet did not have any modern amenities that I remember and I don’t remember getting anything to eat. The only thing I bought was a program.
In game experience
Can’t say I remember much. This was the good ol’ days before on field races and modern jumbo trons. Of course as a Pirates fan I was disappointed that they lost both times and was more preoccupied with the game.
Getting out
Since neither game was well attended it was easy to get out.
Wrap
Outside of getting some autographs before one game I have no fond memories of this place. Older people might but Citizens Bank Park is a huge step up from here.